Using the system

WADER is designed to provide comprehensive capabilities within a user-friendly package. The system shields a new user from the complexities of underwater acoustic range prediction while simultaneously providing an experienced operator with advanced options to perform detailed calculations.

The process is rapid, reliable and simple. It is controlled via four main screens.

Main screen

The main screen is the starting point for calculations where users define their area of interest and add detail to the map display. The main screen renders the 2D sonar performance radial displays. In addition to the on-screen climatology data readouts, optional overlays include:

• Sediment data charts
• Ambient noise and weather data (with third party product access)
• Global port locations and ocean place names
• User-defined area boundaries

Environment screen

The environment screen allows users to edit the track and operational environment. Users upload and manage their own (measured) environment profiles (salinity, SSP) from XBTs using time filters, edit the seabed properties and analyse the sound channel. The data is visualised using the seabed cross-section and profile charts. High-resolution water column profiles can be merged automatically with the tack for use in the analysis screen.

Analysis screen

The analysis screen is where the user conducts detailed propagation loss analysis. The screen has a probability of detection diagram, propagation loss graphic and ray-trace diagram. Users can also display an EIA chart, best source depth and intensity distribution chart. In situ adjustments can be made for reverberation losses, target / source depths and sonar beam angle. Parameters for shipping, sea state and ambient noise are accounted for in the embedded FOM calculators.

Sonar editor

The sonar editor is where users add their own sonar parameters for use in their range prediction processes. WADER is supplied with a set of fictitious sonars – SPUTS – for training purposes.